Ferula caucasica
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Ferula caucasica faces severe pressure from overexploitation for its valuable resin and medicinal properties, leading to unsustainable harvesting practices across its limited range. Habitat degradation through livestock grazing and agricultural expansion has further reduced suitable growing areas in the Caucasus mountains. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the specific temperature and precipitation patterns this high-altitude endemic requires for survival.
Habitat
This endemic species inhabits rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and subalpine zones of the Caucasus mountains, typically growing at elevations between 1,500-3,000 meters. It thrives in well-drained soils on steep terrain with specific microclimatic conditions found in montane grasslands and rocky outcrops.
